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Friday, 2 March 2012

Mission Motorsport Launches at Thruxton

A very happy serviceman in a very fast car!

The official
launch of “Mission Motorsport” a new organisation that uses
motorsport to deliver rehabilitation opportunities to injured service
personnel, took place at Thruxton Circuit yesterday (1st March 2012).

Formed
by a dedicated group of serving soldiers, officers and Motorsport
professionals; Mission Motorsport’s mission is to aid in the
recovery and rehabilitation of those affected by military operations
by providing opportunities through Motorsport.

After
a number of very successful events in 2011, the organisation has
today been granted charitable status by the Charities Commission and
British racing legend Sir Stirling Moss OBE has been confirmed as the
charity’s first patron. Mission Motorsport has exiting plans for
2012 which include a driver development program, including skills
training, coaching and licence acquisition. A fleet of race and
track cars have been prepared, and will be developed and maintained
by the servicemen as they train and campaign in a number of race
disciplines. The charity is planning to enter the Britcar 24hr race,
the 25hr Fun Cup race at Spa Francorchamps as well as a full season
entry in the Superstock Powerboat championship in the P1 class.

Through
engagement in the sport – the charity has a secondary aim, to open
up a series of vocational opportunities, placements and secondments
for injured servicemen considering a return to civilian life. In
addition it was confirmed today that Mission Motorsport will work
with Bentley Motors to set up its first industrial placement later
this year.

James
Cameron, co-founder and Director of Mission Motorsport said:

“The
formal launch of Mission Motorsport and the confirmation of our
charitable status is a landmark achievement for us.”

“We’re
therefore delighted to be able to take our project forward and
deliver a full programme of activities this year. With Sir Stirling
and Bentley already on board, we’ve the chance to really make a
difference to the lives of those affected by military operations”

Christine
Gaskell, Member of the Board for Personnel at Bentley Motors said:

“Everyone
at Bentley is aware of the sacrifices made by our armed forces and
the challenges many servicemen face adapting to life after service.
So when we were approached by Mission Motorsport we jumped at the
opportunity to work with them”

“With
the entire Bentley operation taking place at our site in Crewe we are
able to offer a wide range of opportunities that reflect the skills
and experience of the individuals”.